bjp-starts-consultations-for-ls-speaker-candidate

The BJP has initiated consultations with its allies regarding the ruling NDA's candidate for the Lok Sabha Speaker's post. Meanwhile, the opposition INDIA bloc is weighing its options and might force a contest to gain political leverage.

 

This development comes a day before the filing of nominations for the key position. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which holds a clear majority in the Lok Sabha, has not revealed its choice yet.

 

The alliance is carefully considering its options to prevent the opposition from exploiting the situation for political gains. Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader and Union Minister K Rammohan Naidu mentioned that the alliance's leaders, including Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, will make a decision soon. However, no final decision has been communicated to them.

 

A leader from another BJP ally, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the BJP leadership has consulted with him but declined to share details. Given the theme of continuity in its decisions since returning to power for a third term, there is speculation that Om Birla, the Speaker of the previous Lok Sabha, might be nominated again. However, there is no official confirmation yet.

 

Several opposition leaders have stated that their alliance will decide whether to field a candidate for the Speaker's post based on the NDA's decision. Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) MP NK Premchandran, part of the INDIA bloc, indicated that the opposition might contest if the government does not attempt to build consensus on the candidate. He emphasised that the traditional practice involves the government holding discussions with parties to reach a consensus.

 

The opposition's refusal to join the panel assisting the pro-tem speaker underscores their discontent. Seven-term MP Bhartruhari Mahtab from the BJP was made the pro-tem speaker, bypassing K Suresh of the Congress, who is in his eighth term. This decision has fueled the opposition's resolve to contest the Speaker's election, depending on the NDA's nominee.

 

With 293 MPs, the NDA has a majority in the 543-member Lok Sabha, while the opposition INDIA bloc has 234 MPs. Some independent MPs have declared their support for the Congress, but the ruling alliance's majority remains unchallenged.

 

The upcoming decision on the Lok Sabha Speaker's post is poised to be a significant political event, reflecting the ongoing dynamics between the ruling and opposition parties.